Staying safe in every situation can be difficult and overwhelming, but these safety tips for women can ease your mind and keep you out of harm’s way!
Better together
No matter what you’re doing, it’s always safer when you have someone close by! Whether it’s going on a run, walking to your car, or exploring a new city, try to have a friend join you. Being together means people are less likely to mess with you, and of course it makes everything more enjoyable!
Use technology wisely
Take advantage of all the features we have access to on our devices! If you have an iPhone, consider sharing your location with trusted loved ones with Find my iPhone. Or download the Life360 app and create a circle with your friends to just check in!
If you notice someone’s location or timing seems a bit off, give them a call and make sure everything is alright.
Be alert
Do your best to stay alert, and look like it at all times. Avoid looking down at your phone white walking, or putting in both headphones to block out noise. Instead, look around while walking and keep your eyes & ears peeled for any suspicious behavior nearby. And as cliche as it sounds, confidence is key – look fierce to repel people who might see you as a target.
Tools for safety
To help ease your mind, carry some small personal safety tools on you at all times. They can be discreetly and easily carried, but in an emergency they might make all the difference!
To get people’s attention or scare off suspicious looking people, you can rely on the defendme®. Simply pull out the strap to activate the loud, 120 dB siren and get to safety!
For close contact, carry an easy to use pepper spray keychain. They are easy to use, and don’t have to be replaced for a few years.
Self-defense
Regardless of how careful you are, you can’t control everything, so read up on some basic self-defense moves in case of an emergency. Check out this article for a few moves to practice, with some videos for easy understanding!
Unwanted followers
If you’re being followed, either by foot or by car, here are some things to keep in mind. DO NOT go home – you don’t want them to know where you live. If you’re on foot, try walking towards larger crowds to lose your follower and have others nearby for help. If you are driving, lock your doors and keep your windows rolled up. Drive towards the nearest police or fire station where you can seek help and deter your follower. Also try to make note of their license plate so you can report them later!
In both scenarios, call friends or family to notify them of your danger and assist you with directions. They can also make sure to alert first responders if anything goes wrong, or they think you need help! Also consider asking others for help if you cannot get in touch with anyone you trust.
Knowledge is power
Tell your friends and family where and when you plan on going places, especially if there is a great chance for danger. This way, they can be more attentive of your whereabouts and check in with you to make sure everything is going smoothly.
Thoughtful traveling
Of course, being in a new city or country is lots of fun, but it can also be dangerous. As you embark on sightseeing or relaxation, keep an awareness of your surroundings. Watch out for suspicious looking people. In tourist-packed locations, keep your purse/bag close to your body and avoid flashy clothing & jewelry to avoid pick-pockets. And no matter where you stay, invest in a portable door lock to keep out any unwanted visitors!